A winter blanket drive launched by the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton is gaining momentum as the team works to support vulnerable communities during the colder months.

The initiative is part of the hotel’s growing corporate social investment programme, developed over the past few years to create more meaningful and organised community support.

According to the hotel’s CSI committee, previous outreach efforts included an Angel Tree campaign in December and a teddy bear collection earlier this year, which saw nearly 150 toys donated to organisations in Wendywood and Alexandra.

Building on those successes, the hotel introduced a renewed blanket drive this year, starting around Easter and continuing until the end of May. The collected blankets will be distributed directly to individuals in need, particularly those living on the streets and in nearby communities.

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Staff members, guests and residents have been encouraged to participate by donating blankets or other items, while the hotel also contributes its own resources to ensure donations reach as many people as possible.

Organisers acknowledge that increasing community involvement remains a challenge, but remain determined to expand the initiative’s reach.

“Our focus is to make a real difference in the lives of people who need support,” the committee member said.

Community members wishing to contribute can contact the hotel to arrange donations or drop off items.

Details: merecia@balalaika.co.za

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